What is Apple Wine Called and How is It Made?

The world of alcoholic beverages offers a wide variety of drinks made from different fruits, with apple wine being a notable example. Apple wine, also known as cider, is a fermented alcoholic beverage made from apples. In this article, we will explore the various names for apple wine, the production process, and some popular variations like hard cider and applejack.

What is Apple Wine?

Apple wine, or cider, is made from pressed apples. The juice or must is fermented with yeast to produce an alcoholic beverage with an ABV (Alcohol by Volume) typically ranging from 3% to 8%, but it can go up to 12% or even higher in some cases.

How is Apple Wine Made?

The production process of apple wine involves several steps:

Picking and pressing apples: Apples are carefully picked, and the juice is extracted using pressing methods. Fermentation: The juice is fermented with yeast to convert the natural sugars into alcohol. Filtering and blending: The fermented liquid is filtered to remove any suspended particles and blended for consistent taste and quality. Bottling: The final product is bottled and stored in cellars to continue minor fermentation or to mature and improve the flavor.

Types of Apple Wine

Apple wine comes in various types, each with its own characteristics:

Hard Cider

Hard cider is a stronger version of cider with an ABV typically ranging from 5% to 8%. It can be dry, sweet, or somewhere in between. The variations depend on the type of apples used and how the juice is fermented.

Applejack

Applejack is a high-proof spirit made from hard cider. It is produced by either freezing the cider and allowing the ice to form, or by distillation. The process of "jacking" involves allowing the cidery juice to freeze, then filtering out the ice to concentrate the alcohol content. Alternatively, it can be made by traditional distillation methods.

Global Variations

In different regions, apple wine or cider has its own names and traditions:

Canada: In Canada, apple wine is typically referred to as cider. High-quality versions are also called cider wine. Europe: In some European countries, apple wine may be referred to as apfelwein (German), cidera (Polish), or sidra (Spanish). United States: In the U.S., apple wine can be called cider or hard cider, with hard cider having a higher alcohol content.

Conclusion

Apple wine, or cider, is a beloved alcoholic beverage with a rich history and diverse global traditions. Whether enjoyed in its natural form or as a concentrated spirit like applejack, it continues to captivate cider enthusiasts around the world. Whether you're in Canada, Germany, or the United States, the term used for apple wine can vary, but the love for this delightful drink remains universal.